By Emmanuel Onyedika
An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Niger State, Jonathan Vatsa, has advised President Bola Tinubu to change the style of his administration and reconnect with Nigerians if he hopes to secure victory in the 2027 presidential election.
Vatsa, a former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, said the outcome of the recent Osun governorship election showed that APC governors and political structures could not automatically deliver electoral victories. “For the number of APC governors that gathered in Osun, and for them to come back empty handed, it is an indication that they have lost the confidence of the people,” he said.
He warned that economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, and internal opposition within the APC could affect the party’s chances in 2027, stressing that Nigerians were increasingly focused on tangible governance outcomes rather than political names or endorsements. “What the people want now is food on their table, jobs for their children, security in their communities, and visible impact from government in their daily lives,” Vatsa added.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has raised concerns over vote-buying and the use of BVAS during the Osun election. In a statement, the British High Commission commended the peaceful participation of voters but noted challenges such as voter interference, limited access for persons with disabilities, and overcrowding due to BVAS device shortages.
The Commission urged Nigerian institutions to review these issues and apply lessons from Osun to strengthen transparency and accountability ahead of the 2027 general elections. It reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic institutions and promoting peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections.